Accolades and Artistic Recognition
Recognition is a reflection of the journey, not the destination. Here is a look at the milestones and honours that have graced my path in Bharatanatyam.
Receiving the UPASANA SAMMAN from senior Odissi dancer Geeta Mahalik, alongside retired Supreme Court Judge Shri Arijit Pasayat. It is an honor to be recognized by my peers.
A moment of mutual respect with Shri Arijit Pasayat after receiving the award. Such honors are a source of great encouragement.
Being draped with a shawl by the esteemed dancer Geeta Mahalik as part of the felicitation. These traditional gestures of honor are deeply meaningful.
Sharing a light moment on stage with senior dancer Madhavi Mudgal during the Upasana Samman ceremony.
Holding the Upasana Samman award, presented to me by Padmashri Geeta Mahalik. It was a special evening celebrating dance.
Receiving a garland from the respected Madhavi Mudgal. The support and appreciation from fellow artists is something I cherish deeply.
A proud moment, being honored with the prestigious 'Nrithya Choodamani' title by the Krishna Gana Sabha in Chennai.
The beautiful 'Nrithya Choodamani' gold medallion awarded by Krishna Gana Sabha, a symbol of their recognition and honor.
The plaque from Krishna Gana Sabha, honoring me with the 'Nrithya Choodamani' title for my service and contribution to Bharatanatyam.
The reverse side of the medallion, engraved with my name and the date of the award. A cherished memento from a very special day.
About Accolades & Media Recognition
Awards like the Nrithya Choodamani or the Upasana Samman are not just metal and parchment; they are validations of the rigorous discipline and constant inquiry that define our practice. Whether it is a solo performance or the meticulous training of a student, these moments remind me that art is a dialogue between the tradition we inherit and the creative boundaries we choose to push. If you are looking for a mentor who values research and deep classical roots, let us connect to discuss your own path in dance.
Awards in the classical arts are often viewed as final destinations, yet I see them as waypoints. Receiving the 'Nrithya Choodamani' from Krishna Gana Sabha or being honoured with the 'Upasana Samman' by peers whom I deeply respect—like Madhavi Mudgal and Geeta Mahalik—reinforces my belief that dance is a community. These recognitions validate the research-led approach we take at Natya Vriksha.
My approach to Bharatanatyam has always been at the intersection of tradition and the contemporary world. It is about understanding the grammar of 'tala' and 'raga' while maintaining the freedom to explore through 'abhinaya'. When I teach, I am not just passing on steps; I am sharing a philosophy. Students who train with me at our Gulmohar Park studio engage with this same ethos.
Whether you are a beginner seeking to understand the basics of 'adavus' or an advanced dancer preparing for an 'arangetram', my role as your 'Akka' (elder sister) is to ensure your training is grounded, disciplined, and intellectually stimulating. We do not just perform; we investigate the stories of our mythology and the nuances of our culture. If you are seeking a mentorship that respects the 'guru-shishya parampara' while welcoming the questions of a modern student, I invite you to reach out. We can discuss your goals, whether that involves short-term workshops or long-term dedication to this beautiful art form.
Geeta Chandran
I am Geeta Chandran, a dancer and teacher based in Delhi. My studio, Natya Vriksha, is where we merge the rigour of classical Bharatanatyam with the warmth of a family-like mentorship.
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